Here's the thing - London pubs aren't dive bars. Different animal entirely.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese off Fleet Street. Old school pub, sawdust floors, no music. Been there since 1667. Real ale, decent food, tourists but not touristy.

French House in Soho. Half pints only, cash only, standing room mostly. Dylan Thomas used to drink here. Good wine list.

Look - avoid any pub with flat screen TVs showing sports. That's not a real London pub.